1. Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F. Lightly butter a 2-quart (9 by 12 by 2-inch) oval baking dish. Melt the butter, and set aside to cool.

2. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the eggs and sugar on medium-high speed for 5 to 10 minutes, until very thick and light yellow. Meanwhile, sift the cocoa powder and flour together, and set aside.

3. When the egg and sugar mixture is ready, reduce the speed to low and add the vanilla seeds, framboise (if using) and the cocoa powder and flour mixture. Slowly pour in the cooled butter, and mix again just until combined.

4. Pour the brownie mixture into the prepared dish, and place it in a larger baking pan. Add enough of the hottest tap water to the pan to come halfway up the side of the dish; bake for 1 hour. The center will appear very under-baked; this dessert is between a brownie and a pudding.

Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Well I am quite pleased with myself. I went to bed last night thinking .... When you wake up tomorrow you have to start on your Christmas Gifts.... I decided before I went to sleep .. what I was going to sew today... I was able to get three of several Christmas Presents made!!! Yeah!!! That's a start ... on the things I want to take with me to CA when I go. You ask what did you make??? Well I sewed three lovely aprons... I can't show them too you... sorry my family sometimes visit my blog.. I would hate for them to see them. Your thinking to yourself .. silly girl .. they know what they are getting!!! I know I know...if they read this post they will know what they are getting from me. I say that's ok they won't know what they look like ;) I was also thinking about making wonky potholders to match.. maybe a baked potato bad too :)Then I have to figure out what to make my Niece.. she is such a sweet girl.. she is in those horrible teen years. I am sort of stumped on what to make her.. I thought about making her a groovy purse.. but I gave her a handcrafted purse last year for Christmas. I was thinking of making her an awesome book cover.. one the size that will fit those Mead Composition notebooks. Or maybe I could find a sketch pad that would be a handy size for her. She likes to doodle ;)Then I just might throw in a fun back pack :) I know what I am going to sew for my Nephew.. he is the Artist.. I am going to make him a Portfolio bag... with a pencil case on the outside. :) He will love that. I am going to make a couple of other things for my mom.. but I can't tell here.. I know she will be peeking at the blog now and then.. I really don't want to spoil that special surprise for her ;) I am really at a loss as to what to make my granny that is in the care home.. I know she would like anything that I make her. I will also if time allows make matching tea/drink wallets and zipper pouches for them. I always like to throw in the smaller fun stuff :) I might even make an owl or two:) I have several more to sew for.. if you have any suggestions.. I would love them.. I have the following people to sew for:GrannyAuntBrotherBrother in lawNephew in lawUncleSo if anyone has some amazing ideas send them my way.. I would so much appreciate it ;)

Monday, July 27, 2009

I would like to introduce you to the newest member of AuntPittyPat's Annie family: she has flown all the way here to the USA from Australia!! I am so excited to show her to all of you........... So without further delay.....Here she is.........

AGNITHA

Isn't she adorable... I received Agnitha.... from Naomi who by the way has named her this very fun name :) Isn't she just adorable. I also love the handcrafted tote bag that came with her. I have to tell you this bag is fabulous.. it has jumping frogs on it!!! I was so excited about getting her up here on the blog .. I didn't think to press the bag. I know I am going to have to beg Naomi for a pattern copy of this fantastic bag, provided she has a pattern for them :) As you all know my family in CA are huge Green People.. its recycle this and its recycle that!!! So I think these style of wonderful tote bags would be awesome gifts for the girls.. these clever little bags fold up and make a nice tidy little wallet looking thing.. what a wonderful way to store them in a purse or glove box... I love them .. Thank you Naomi for such a fun PVT swap :)

Sunday, July 26, 2009

I had a discussion a few blogs posts back regarding wonky quilt blocks.. well I found this awesome way to use those not quite even quilt blocks. Its called aTOPSY TURVYquilt top.What an awesome way to use up those not quite square blocks, that all of us make one time or another in our sewing :)I have provided the link to go to the tutorial on how to make this awesome quilt featured in the above photo :)http://quiltingpassion.com/blocks/topsy.html

There was also discussion on how to cut your blocks with a rotary cutter.. Yeah.... I found on youtube an abundance of wonderful videos on how to use your rotary cutters :) I have provided the link below ;)

Quick Tip to Prevent Fraying

If you prewash your fabrics by machine, you have probably suffered through the tangle of excess threads that sometimes pull away from the cut edges. Try this trick to help cut down on this problem--open the cut of fabric out flat and trip a small (1/2") triangle from each corner. Wash as usual, and prepare to be pleasantly surprised at the lack of tangled threads.

To Wash or Not to Wash?

Prewashing of quilting fabric is a subject for debate among quilters. Those in favor of prewashing do so to avoid the possibility of the excess fabric dyes running and ´bleeding´ onto a lighter piece of fabric and ruining many hours of hard work. Another reason to prewash all your fabric is to be sure that any shrinkage takes place before your blocks are cut out and sewn together.

Fans of not prewashing cite the crispness of the fabric as the top reason not to wash before piecing. If all your fabrics are washed before piecing, they will tend to shrink a little and give an old-fashioned ´puckered´ appearance.

Prewashing

When prewashing your fabric by machine, be sure to unfold the flat cuts completely. If you leave them folded as they come from the bolt, the center crease is much harder to remove by ironing.

Check Your Seams

A simple technique for accurate machine sewn seams involves a ruler and masking tape. Lower your machine´s needle at the 1/4" mark. Leave the ruler in place and place several layers of tape one on top of the other butted up against the ruler´s edge. This will leave a build up of tape that can be used to guide your pieces under the needle at just the right spot. Check the tape periodically to be sure that the mark has not shifted.

Chain Piecing

Speed up your machine quilting by using a technique called ´chain piecing.´ Match the first two pieces to be joined, stitch them together and stop the machine. Do not cut the threads. Match the next two pieces and place them under the pressure foot leaving a small gap after the first unit. Continue in this manner for as many units as you´d like. Snip apart, press, and you are ready to move on to the next step.

We don't live where we did when you left home.Your dad read in the newspaper that most accidents happen within 20 miles of your home, so we moved.

I won't be able to send you the address because the lastGander family that lived here took the house numberswhen they moved so they wouldn't have to change their address.

This place is really nice.It even has a washing machine.I'm not sure about it.I put a load of clothes in and pulled the chain.We haven't seen them since.

The weather isn't bad here. It only rained twice last week; the first time for three days and the second time for four days.

Auntie Maude has sent you a pair of socks she knit, she put a third one in because she heard you have grown another foot since she last saw you.

About that coat you wanted me to send; your Uncle Billy said it would be too heavy to send in the mail with the buttons on, so we cut them off and put them in the pockets.

Jimmy locked his keys in the car yesterday.We were really worried because it took him two hoursto get me and your father out.

Your sister had a baby this morning, but I haven't found out what it is yet, so I don't know if you are an aunt or uncle. The baby looks just like your brother.

Uncle Bobby fell into a whiskey vat last week. Some men tried to pull him out but he fought them off and drowned. We had him cremated, he burned for three days.

Three of your friends went off a bridge in a pickup truck. Butch was driving. He rolled down the window and swam to safety. Your other two friends were in the back. They drowned because they couldn't get the tailgate down.

There isn't much more news at this time.Nothing much out of the normal has happened.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

I know sometimes when you sew a quilt block no matter how hard you try it comes out wonky. What are some of the ways they can be saved?Do you do some of the following???Do you cut them into smaller blocks?Do you make an uneven border around them?Do you just scrap them?Do you use them like they are?If you use them like they are do you make an uneven border?What are some suggestions on how to fix uneven blocks!! I know I can certainly sew uneven blocks as a beginner :( Which I'm sure that might be the case in my blocks. I look at others and see every point is perfect and lined up evenly ... some of mine are off a tad. I think its because when I rotary cut .... I don't get the ruler set at the same place on the cutting line. Which puts me off just a tad. That really comes into play when your trying to sew everything together ... Its funny my first few blocks of each set are off a tad.. then as I sew along they become more and more even. Yes I do use the pin the seams and sew method.. but for some reason I always get off a tad..... So I figure its just a matter of time before all my blocks are even all the time ;) If I keep sewing blocks that is ;) One never realizes how much that little smidgen of extra fabric will throw off your even blocks.

Monday, July 20, 2009

On May 25, 1961, President John F. Kennedy said, "I believe that this nation should commit itself to achieving the goal, before this decade is out, of landing a man on the moon and returning him safely to the earth." On July 20, 1969, the goal was achieved when Apollo 11 commander Neil Armstrong and Lunar Module pilot Buzz Aldrin landed on the lunar surface. Can you believe this historic voyage happened 40 years ago today????I remember the night/day that they landed on the moon. I stayed the night at the neighbors. Her grandchildren came over and we played Canasta and Hearts all night long. We drank RC Cola and ate Butterscotch hard candies. I can still remember like it was yesterday... when they said that Neil and Buzz was walking on the moon we ran outside and looked up at the sky and yelled throw us down a moon rock. We will be rich when we get older if you do that for us :) Oh the fun we had that night. If you were one of the lucky ones to be a part of that history making event.. I am sure you know right where you were when they walked on that huge beautiful moon ;) What happened to the days that we would sit on the edge of our seats to watch the Space Ships take off and land. I don't know about you but I am still in awe of the Space program. Its so full of wonder and excitement. I try to keep up with all of the Shuttle take offs and landings. There has been so many things that has been gained from the Space program. I am sure we will continue to benefit from it.I am so lucky I live near the City of Hutchinson Ks it has an awesome display of Space memorabilia. They are known the world over for the finest collection of artifacts pertaining to space. I haven't visited it in a few years. When Grandmother Peachy was able to came and visit.. we always made a trip there. She would tell me such interesting stories of how travel evolved from horse and Buggy. She knows all about those things...bless her sweetness.. she is now 99 years and 6 months old ;)

Hello ladies .. APP has been sewing up a storm.. really its storming out right now. We are under a tornado warning until 2 am. Lots of thunder, lightning, wind and huge rain drops are falling. I am so happy I got three of my swaps done today. A Pvt Annie swap is completed and it is going to be on its way to Australia tomorrow. My little Nekid Doll done and wrapped to ship out tomorrow too. Lastly I have wrapped up my book for a PVT book swap that I joined in :) I have been working on my final set of disappearing 9 patch blocks. I have sad news to report we are getting a few of our swappers dropping out. Having said that we might not get 40 total blocks :( I will divide the ones that we do get with all the participants. Life is always changing... our intentions are good.. but life throws that old curve ball when we least expect it..... then we have to bunt. So ladies please don't be upset if you don't get 40 different blocks. I know the ones that you are going to get are amazing :) I love each and everyone of them.Speaking of blocks.. I really do need to get with it on the remaining Spooktacular Halloween blocks. I just need to do the 9 patch blocks and I will be done with that swap too :) Yeah!!! I have been having lots of fun sewing these quilt blocks... now I wonder how long it will take me to quilt them??? Things that make you go HUMMMMMMMMMM :)~~~~~ One final word.. I have to tell you about my dear friend Ronda.. she has really done a wonderful job of making little blankets for Craft Hope. She and some other wonderful women made 42 baby blankets.. that is amazing. THANK YOU RONDA... for your wonderful acts of kindness :) I have to bow my head in shame.. I didn't even get one made.... I really wasn't up to a lot this month. Mostly I have been lazy. I haven't been my usual self.. when its stormy out.. my ole Arthur really gives me fits then add on the pain from the Accident and I am a mess. So I feel bad about not participating since I encouraged you to help. Maybe next time. I seems like there isn't much turn around time to make things unless that's all you do. I wish it was a work at your own pace sort of thing. I wonder if they would just take regular donations that are made from the heart??? I would be interested to know if you were able to help ;) Please let us know.. Thanks to everyone that helped out. ~~~~~

Saturday, July 18, 2009

Uber (synonym to Super) Amazing Blog Award is a blog award given to sites who:~ inspires you~ makes you smile and laugh~ or maybe gives amazing information~ a great read~ has an amazing design~ and any other reasons you can think of that makes them uber amazing!

The rules of this award are:* Put the logo on your blog or post.* Nominate at least 5 blogs (can be more) that for you are Uber Amazing!* Let them know that they have received this Uber Amazing award by commenting on their blog.* Share the love and link to this post and to the person you received your award from.

Thank you Faerie Wysperer for this fabulous award ;) You are such a dear heart.. always jumping to help out when ever I need a favor or an Angel .. Your my inspiration :)

I have notice over that last few months that I have gotten a lot more followers. Thank you... to all of you that visit here. I hope to keep you inspired and entertained ;)

Well its time for me to name 5 people for this award.. This maybe hard as a lot of people are now going to award free blogs. I know its a lot of time to post these sweet thoughtful gifts so I am still going to play along. If you don't get an award from me.. please don't be hurt. I try to spread them around as I get them. All of you women are wonderful ;)

Ok here are my choices:

1.Turtle Trax.... Here is one gal that can Quilt!! I love going to her blog and seeing what she has created. She has been a bit distracted of late with the move and not getting her new car.. but those unfortunate events were also very interesting to read. Patience of a Saint!!

2. Viv on a Whim... I am always awed by the resilience of Viv.. she has had a few hardships this year and she is still sharing her wonderful creations and lovely projects with all of us. If you have not been to her blog... run check it out fantastically fun :)

3. Airmansmom... This wonder person knows who she is... she doesn't have a blog. Ronda posts comments on my blog often. I have to tell all of you about her. She is one the most loving and giving person that I know of. She is always sewing blankets, dolls and what ever else that is needed for her Charity work. Ronda has been very instrumental in helping me with my up coming swap in Sept :) Thank you Ronda for everything you have done for me to help in my adventures of sewing. Your a true treasure of a friend ;)

4. Maria... This is another wonderful treasure in my life... Maria is always the first one to jump on board when I need an Angel. Not only does Maria have a big heart she is an excellent seamstress. I am always lucky to draw her as a partner on any swap :) Thank you my friend :)

5.Casarth-Baren I have to tell you I have just found this wonderful web site. I am so amazed at this woman's work. LOL I can't understand a darn thing she is saying .. but I do love what she creates :) I have requested she put up a translator button so I can also enjoy her blog more ;)

Last but not least:

6. Brenda at Lillie Maes.. I have to say this is one of the trues inspirations there is when it comes to Annie Dolls.. I love visiting her blog and seeing all of the wonderful creations that she has designed. Brenda is also a very dear heart, kind, and sweet and very giving ;) Thank you for considering me a friend :)

The award said blogs.. but I feel there are some very wonderful women out there that need to get a few kudos that don't have a blogs. Thank you..... for all of your warm comments and fun creative projects that you share with all of us.. mostly thank you so much for considering my blog to be good ;) Its always a struggle for me to find just the right thing to post. :) I am glad you like what I choose :) Once again Ms. S... thank you for the award I am honored!!!

Raspberry Gelato

1/3 cup of sugar (start with less and add if you worried about it being too sweet)

1/2 cup of heavy cream

Whir them all together in a food processor or blender until it's completely smooth. THAT'S. IT. And this feeds 4-6 people, depending how you interpret "portion size."

Depending on how frozen your berries are, you might have to whir a bit longer, but you can serve it immediately if you'd like. Or just pour the bright pink awesomeness into a container and throw it in the freezer for a couple of hours. It'll last a couple of weeks I think, but mine didn't even come close to making it that long. And if you're adventurous, experiment with other fruits! The bigger the fruit, the longer it'll take (assuming they're frozen fruits). And if you'd like something a little less fattening, feel free to try plain yogurt instead of the cream. I haven't tried it, but I can't imagine it'd be bad.

Friday, July 17, 2009

Hey ladies its been a very busy week here in Ta Town :) I just haven't had time to post everyone that has sent me some blocks this week. Sorry.............. I will do that on my up coming days off... I have received 3 sets of blocks as of today. So this weekend I will shoot some photos and post the awesome new blocks ;) I have great plans for finishing up a couple of swaps also over the weekend.. I keep saying I am not going to join any more swaps... but guess who is a swap head... I need to go to swappers Anonymous.... yes you heard me right I am sure its just like crack is to a crack head... I think I have to be in this constant state of hurry hurry hurry. Just like the Rabbit in Alice in Wonderland.. I'm Late ... I'm Late!!! I wonder if that has any thing to do with my almost new fast fast pace job that I am in now. The phones never stop ringing the people never stop coming in. That must be spilling over into the home life. I hope not!! Swaps are too much fun and always exciting. LOL I think its more like gambling... When you sign up you get a partner... then its a real gamble if you get something at all ;) I have been so lucky.. I have only had two partners not complete a swap with me.... Out of all the swaps I have joined in over the last 2 years. I hear the odds are not usually that good. But I know things happen... That is why I try and be a good swap Mommy ;) Speaking of swap Mommies.. I am going to be doing something different in the up coming swap year. It seems like the same people are always my angels. I am going to put up a donation button on my blog. All the money that is donated will be given to the Angels to help defer some of the cost of making up the swaps. It will be used when needed... if I have to have an Angel. We are talking postage, maybe a few bucks for the materials, and packaging.... All of this can become expensive if you are always saying yes to being an Angel. So when you see the button .. please send a few bucks to help out ;) I hope to have that button up by the weekend... so we can start our little slush fund :) I do have a lot of the same people joining in on my swaps.. and most usually all my swaps are completed by everyone. But sometimes we have had a few times like we did with the 4 bad swap lifters. It was suggested that I charge a fee for joining in on my swaps.. but I don't want to do that. Not everyone can give the same amount .. so I am leaving it up to you to send what you can afford through the donation button as you can afford it :) Thanks my sweet friends....I hope you all have a great weekend :)

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

Do you ever wonder why things happen like they do? Well I wonder about life a lot. As many of you know that I have been going back and forth regarding my Border Collie that got out a few months back. He allegedly bit someone. Well I am still going to court on that issue. Last month I was there because it was the first time to show up for the hearing date. Well I had requested Discovery though the court to produce records. It was my understanding last month the continuance was given against the City to produce the records for me. BUT OH NO..... the City charged it to me. Well as luck would have it... they handed me a single sheet of paper tonight 10 mins before court started, and said here is your discovery. Oh my goodness was I up set to say the least. I had no way to subpoena the required witness... The one that got bit!!! What were they thinking?? It was such a lame effort on the courts part? Was that a band-aid.. to try and fix the mistakes on the Courts part? While I was sitting there fuming... in walks an attorney friend of mine. He walk right over to me and asked what I was doing.. I told him and he ask to see my paperwork that I had. I handed it to him... and he said let me work this out for you. Now let me tell you the court got a whole new change in attitude toward me when he walked up and told the Judge he was representing me :) Well to make this story a tad shorter.. the City got a continuance to produce the records for me, or produce the witness that my attorney requested. LOL I still don't know if he is going to charge me or not..but I handed him my address and told him to send me a bill. I was very thankful he was there so I would not get railroaded. Now where was I going with this.. Oh yes back to my train of thought on this.....I really think that the lord looks out for those that need him. I believe he helps us when we least expect it. I don't always think he gives us things that we want.... I think he gives little gifts like with me tonight when my friend walked up and asked if he could help. That to me was a gift!!! I just thought I would give all of you a tad bit of food for thought ;)

Monday, July 13, 2009

I could not help myself.. I am blaming this one Jane.. from the spook-tacular block swap!!!I had to join in on this Siggy block swap. I had such a fun time with my last siggy block swap.. I just had to participate in this one!!! I think its so much fun when you receive the finished blocks.. you get to meet new women and you get so many different

wonderful fun blocks. Below is some of the stuff you need to know to participate in the block swap. If it looks or sounds like fun.. just click on the photo above to go to the link to sign up ;)

Block Directions:

1. You may choose any light colored fabric of your choice for backgrounds. Cut your backgrounds into 3 1/2″ squares.

2. You may use any civil war reproduction fabric for your corners. Cut 2 squares at 2 1/2″ . Draw a diagonal line through the center and pin in place in the upper left and lower right hand corners. Sew on the diagonal line.

3. Trim off corners at 1/4″ and press open.

4. Sign your name and city/state diagonally in the center of the block with a permanent fabric marker.

Rules so far:

1. Closing date to sign up will be August 31, 2009

2. Sign up open to all U.S. residents only (i think shipping would be too high overseas right?)

3. All blocks will be sent to me with a self-addressed stamped envelope to have the swap blocks sent back to you.

4. All blocks will be mailed to me by November 31, 2009

5. Amount of blocks you will make is dependent on how many participants we get signed up.

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Well ladies I hope you were able to get some of that well deserved sewing done ;) "Me" I have been sewing off and on all day :) I have 7 of my Halloween blocks completed. I did have 8 completed almost.........Your wondering to yourself "Oh no" what could have happened to the eighth one right???? Well it was that little Demon Gnome... of Sewing that came along an helped me make a huge blunder on my block... I was cutting out this piece of material to add to a block when all of a sudden....... I cut right through a almost completed block and my applique pressing mat. I'll tell you.... I wasn't near up set about the block as I was cutting into my expensive applique pressing mat. And to think I have only used it 2 times since the purchase of it. Now it has a huge 3 inch or more long gash in it. As far as the block goes... its a goner.. I will have to make that one over again. I hate when your almost done with something and a stupid mistake happens because your tired and what to hurry up and get what your working on finished. Dang the bad luck anyway!!! Other than that I am loving how the blocks are turning out. I purchased this fancy used Baby Lock last year and to my amazement it has a built in blanket stitch programed in... Just what I needed to stitch around my pieces on my Wonky Houses.. If I get the time tomorrow I will try and take a photo of the finished blocks. If not it will have to be next weekend... I hope you all can wait that long to see them :) Other than my royal goof up.. I have had a fun weekend so far :) .... I hope everyone else had a great weekend too :)

An old Italian lived alone in New Jersey . He wanted to plant his annual tomato garden, but it was very difficult work, as the ground was hard.His only son, Vincent, who used to help him, was in prison. The old man wrote a letter to his son and described his predicament:Dear Vincent,I am feeling pretty sad, because it looks like I won't be able to plant my tomato garden this year. I'm just getting too old to be digging up a garden plot. I know if you were here my troubles would be over. I know you would be happy to dig the plot for me, like in the old days.Love, PapaA few days later he received a letter from his son.Dear Pop,Don't dig up that garden. That's where the bodies are buried.Love,VinnieAt 4 a.m. the next morning, FBI agents and local police arrived and dug up the entire area without finding any bodies. They apologized to the old man and left.That same day the old man received another letter from his son.Dear Pop,Go ahead and plant the tomatoes now. That's the best I could do under the circumstances.

Saturday, July 11, 2009

Check this out.. don't have the space for a garden.. look at this fun Idea!!! I just love these clever ideas people are coming up with for small gardens. Wouldn't this be fun on a balcony of an apartment complex with strawberry's in it??? This appears to be a herb garden.. you could hang this right outside your back door and bring it in in the fall ... keep a grow light on it and have wonderful herbs through out the winter.. put it back out in the spring.. ya what a way to have herbs year round ;)This appears to be one of those shoe holders.

Position a rack in the middle of he oven. Preheat the oven to 300º F. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper.

Make the cookies. Sift both flours, the cornstarch, baking powder, and salt into a medium bowl and set aside.

In a large bowl, using an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the butter and powdered sugar until smooth and lightened slightly in color, about 1 minute. Stop the mixer and scrape the sides of the owl as needed during mixing. Add the vanilla and mix until blended. On low speed, add the flour mixture, mixing just until it is incorporated and a smooth dough forms.

For each cookie, roll a level tablespoon of dough between the palms of your hands into a smooth ball. Place the cookies on the prepared baking sheets, spacing them 2 inches apart. Use a fork to gently flatten the cookies to 1 1/4 inch disks, leaving an impression of the fork tines. Bake the cookies one sheet at a time until the tops feel firm and the cookie bottoms are lightly browned, about 30 minutes; the tops of the cookies should not color. Cool the cookies on the baking sheets for 10 minutes, then use a wide metal spatula to transfer the cookies to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the filling. In a medium bowl, use a wooden spoon to stir the butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla together until smooth. Stir in the chocolate chips.

Turn half of the cooled cookies bottom side up, and use a thin metal spatula to spread a rounded teaspoon of filling evenly over each one. Place the remaining cookies right side up on the filing, and press gently.

The cookies can be stored in a tightly covered container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Friday, July 10, 2009

I was just shopping for a fun Annie Pattern when I came across Homespun From The Heart . Cindy offers primitive rag dolls, seasonal primitives, patterns, e-patterns, doll hair, doll making supplies, fabric and vintage wares. If you can't sew and are interested in one of her dolls she even has completed sweet Annies for sale. I just love the new design Cindy calls CupCake Dolls...Cindy is having a very nice sale on her E-patterns. She is offering them for $4.00 each if you purchase via E-patterns. There is no limit to the number you can purchase :) If you like sewing Annie Dolls run over there and see what she is cooking up with her sale ;) I know I was happy that I popped by ;)

Is anyone else having trouble with blogger today.. I can't even load up a simple photo!!!!!

Thursday, July 9, 2009

I had several people say they loved my little bowl that I received. They also asked if there was going to be a tutorial soon. So I took a trip around the Internet and came up with a tutorial on how to make them. Just click on the photo it will take you right to the tutorial. I also provided a video that might help you in making these sweet little bowls ;)I tried and tried to up load the following video last nite and today. But for some reason I kept getting an error.. Alas I was unable to put it on the blog.. you can go to it by this link :)http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G5Pbr9zi8XQIt's a video on how to get you started making these fun and wonderful fabric bowls.. Did you know there is a book out on how to make them. It will mention the book in the video :) Have fun creating ;)

Moda Bake Shophttp://www.modabakeshop.com/ hasa stunning example of how to put your disappearing 9 patch blocks together... just follow the provided link to see ;) I think their example is awesome.. I can't wait to see how we put ours together ;) I know I am going to try and set my blocks like they have ;)

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

To brighten your day. This is a real video from a French documentary about Africa. You won't understand a word, but the video's a hoot. You don't need to understand the words!!! There are trees that grow in Africa which, once a year, produce very juicy fruits. As these fruits drop from the tree they start to change. Because there is a shortage of water, as soon as the fruits are ripe, animals come there to eat of the fruits and help protect themselves from the heat. What happens next, you can watch for yourselves.

Ronda thank you for giving me such a good laugh!!! I had forgotten when my apricot trees use to drop the fruit and my Nanna Banna Goat use to eat them.. she would do the same silly thing stumble all around and look all wonky at you ;) One year that stupid thing ate so many I thought for sure she was going to OD on fermented fruit!!

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

I know several of my followers sell their handcrafted items. I found this wonderful site called Art Fire. On my side bar you will find a button to go to that site. Please click on the join button as I will get credit for you joining. If I get 20 people to join I will have a free life time membership. So ladies join up even if your not selling. Its like Etsy if your going to purchase you still have to have an account. So come on girls help me out and join up :)

Monday, July 6, 2009

Remember the last post where I had all those arms, legs, and heads... This is what all of those arms legs and heads are beginning to look like now ;) I just need to sew on the legs and faces to complete these funny little bodies. Momma Bear... that I spent the 4th of July with said they look like little ET's right now without the legs. She just laughed and laughed ;) Momma Bear gets her coined name because..... she is aways feeding me home cooked meals!!! Sort of like the Momma bear in the Goldie Locks story. :) Working on my Annies is going to be a today job. I have switched from painting on faces to sewing on faces. I think that method is working out much better for me. At least I like how they are turning out. For some reason they look more finished and they have that handcrafted look about them. They really do look like they were made from the heart with love. I admit I am not a painter... never was and probably will never be. But as a person that likes a challenge... I try really really hard at the painted stuff:) Here is my little Andy that I am working on .. I may have shown him before ..but I thought I would throw him into the mix, just in case you have not seen what I am up to with the Andys. Thank you all..... for your help with suggestions and patterns to help me get this little guy together ;) I am also going to work on him a bit today. If nothing else I will get some hair on that shiny little noggin ;) Yes its ok to laugh........ I am laughing as I type this!!!LOL here is my first hand stitched face on my Annies... she is sort of funny looking... sort of Wonky!!! I need to remove her eyes and re-set them with a different flat un-shinny looking button. I think the shiny buttons... makes it look like they have a black eye or something..Believe it or not these are the same color of buttons and same style.. look how they look so different!!! I know I know not a very good photo ..but its the best I could do for now :) Its cloudy outside and this is an indoor photo with me standing above her. I promise when I get all the Andy's and Annie's done I will take a super photo of each one of them :) Did you notice I made felt shoes for her.. I think I will put handmade shoes on all of my Annies now. Heck the shoes make up faster than I can paint them on :) Oh BTW this Annie is not completed she still has some work to be done on her. Like tuck in the hair strings and add some jewelry on her to froo froo her up a tad :) WONKY HOUSESOk here is the design I came up with on my Halloween Block. Do you see the fabrics that you sent to me? Well I really have used a lot of them so far. I still have several blocks to make ;) This is only the first stage where you fuse them to the main block I still have to satin stitch around the out side of each of the 12 blocks. I think we also have to sign them. I am leaning toward putting a bat across the moon or a witch on a broom :) The window is going to be sectioned off and with panes. The door is going to have a little window at the top.. also can't forget the door knob . the chimney is going to have some smoke or the Ghost is going to be coming out of it .... I also think the window or the door way needs a ghost. I am going to put on buttons and lace and what ever else I can find to finish them up. I think they will be so fun when they get done ;)

I am really having a fun time making these blocks. It has been very time consuming.. I am so thankful our hostess gave us almost two months to make them as I think I just might need all that time to work on them. I cut out all the 12 1/2 X 12 1/2 back ground squares yesterday and got 4 blocks fused and then I started on another 4 blocks. I have to fuse the pieces and then place them on the 12 1/2 block. Having done all of that yesterday.. I worked on them for 5 hours and decided I needed a rest. I still have a hard time standing and sitting at too long of a time in one session. I have to take breaks. But I was having so much fun with theses I just kept at it. Big mistake...... So now I will have to pull myself away from the fun :) I hope you like my blocks if you have any suggestions I am very willing to listen to how to improve them ;) Thanks for letting me share my recent sewing projects with you :O)Oh do you think I should paint on faces or sew on faces? Which way do you like the best????

Thursday, July 2, 2009

Wow sweet bloggie friends... I can't believe its been since Sunday that I last posted here on the little ole blog. I guess its been a busy week!!! Where does the time go?? I remember sitting at the table with my mom when I was 17 griping about how the days were so long and boring. My mom in all of her wisdom... smiled at me and said wait until your older you will wonder where the time goes... I hate to admit it but she is right. (I hate to admit it but I am more and more like my mom each year!!!) Where does it go??? Well maybe it went like this... On Tuesday my neighbor accidentally let the horses out.. so it was go down the road and gather them up and bring them home. Now this was a fun time... cars were racing by at break neck speed and I could only catch one.. but I am lucky .. If I can catch that one the others will follow once one starts moving away from the other ones. When they were little I use to pony them together down the road with the old Mare. So they got use to following and being in a line. Oh did I tell you the PoPo was out there too... some one called the cops on me!!! I am thankful they did.. I wouldn't want anything happening to the horses. After the horses were caught and secured up in their pasture. I then race to that Vet appointment to get Fatty Matty and Tigger their last Lipto shot. Both babies were good except Miss Matty that got scared and Pooooooed on the floor. I was so embarrassed..but I expected it from her!! She is such a fraidy cat. Ok so.... After returning them home... it was time to go get grain for the goose and a mineral salt block for the horses at the local Farm center. I dropped that off at home and went to Wal-Mart to get food me and eats for the creatures. When I returned home I changed all waters and filled up the feeders. Did I mention that I also put out two huge round bales of hay for the horse too :) Fed the Koi fish and grained the horses.

Wed was a work day and was it a day from heck.. I was busy from the time I got to work until I got off work. I even got off late by the way. There I was upon arriving at home.. I had nothing to do... WRONG!!!!..... it was laundry, animal chores and emails.. I did some sewing for my Friends swap that I am in. I almost have that together to ship off on Monday. Yeah it will not be late or at least I hope its not late !!! No it will not be late ;) Its due on July 10th. Then I am going to do nothing but work on my Halloween Blocks for my block swap. Thanks to all my sweet blocks swappers I have some amazing fun materials that I can now start my blocks with. Thank you sweet and generous friends. :)

Tonight I am going to do some research on the computer for 12 1/2 inch blocks. I designed a block but I don't know if I am pleased with it. So like I always do I'll get on the net for Ideas :) Isn't that what a lot of us ladies do???

Yeah... then tomorrow is my last day of work this week .. I am off the 4th and so far no one has any claims on me... so its either going to be a blk and white, Gone With The wind, or Disney over indulgence movie marathon. Or I could just sew for me... something that I like to do once in a while. I consider sewing for me as a free day. I don't want to do anything else but that. I am able to take my time and be creative ... and that will be just the day to work on my Annie Pattern that I am developing ;) I also need to make my Toy Society toys... I missed the last two months and I feel like such a cad not getting those done... I will get caught up on that I promised my self to do one toy a month and I am behind two...but it shouldn't take much. I already have the patterns picked out for them;) I know this is a bunch of gab but I didn't have anything amazing to post today.. Just me and my little ole words of non-sense :)

Feed back is Welcome on this site :) Cruze around my articles are always having updates added

I know that I have a lot of visitors...... Please leave comments, so I know you liked your visit. Your comments let me know what to write about :) . Besides.... It makes me so happy to read them :) Thank you!!

Awesome Annie Artist!!

My 4th toy has been dropped ;o)

Current Swaps I'm In :)

Share your projects with other followers at One World Sewing :)

Just click the photo it will take you to the Flickr Group :)

2 Are You over ran by fabric scraps?

If your pile of fabric scraps are getting out of hand, but can't seem to throw them away.. and you would like to share them.. please send me an email. I would love to have your bits. Photo from flickr, Sometimes crafter.

I took the pledge

Buy handmade

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month

Stop These Women are Theifs!!!

BEWARE OF THIS SELLER:

I entered into a Pvt swap with this person and she ripped me off for a lot of time and money. I have tried and tried to get her to make our deal right between us. I had been warned by others about her... but I wanted to form my own opinion. I am sorry I did not listen to them. She has also ripped off other people on Ebay.

Swap Lifters

A. J. What Happened?

Desiree S.

Erin R..

Gabi S.

Irene S.

Samantha L.

You can email me for full names

The SwapDex

"Life is a coin. You can spend it anyway you wish, but you can only spend it once."

Venders at the bottom of my blog.. Please take a moment to look at their shops new shop added 10-1

Bone Head Studios :)

Debi Birkin Designs

My sweet friend Debi has opened a new shop.. click on photo to check out her wonderful fun knitting patterns.. she is always adding new patterns ;)

Have you ever gone a Fishin on a Bright Sunny Day????

Bring on the Strippers

I DON'T DO MORNINGS

Fat Chance

My Little Kitty

Aunt Pitty Pat's Apparel

Isn't this just the sweetest little hoodie coat you have ever seen for your fur-kid..This bright and fun coat is lined with thermo fleece to keep your small fur-baby warm on the coldest nights... you can purchase handcrafted items from my Etsy shop just click on my link in my favorites list for easy access to my site.

Sweet Pin Cushions from AuntDaisysCottage

Offering this wonderful handcrafted Pincushions for sale from Home Sweet Home, Noble.... Cathy's Pincushions are 6" X 4" and are firmly filled with ground walnut shells (Commericial Product) and Polyfill. The weight of the ground shells make the Pincushions "Stay Put" and holds pins and needles firmly!!! This seamstress offers very beautiful handcrafted items in her Aunt Daisy's cottage Etsy Shop... please click on picture or on her link in my list of Favorite Etsy sellers to get to her shop quickly.

4 sale Softy Pin Cushions made by me in My Etsy Shop

NO MORE...No No bad dog belly bands

My sweet friend Patrice from DoDaa Doggie Apparel makes these wonderful belly bands for your little boy furkids that like to mark your house..these are wonderful...they are soft and fit just right.. she has designed these bands to last a long time. They are easy to wash and care for.. I own them for my bad boy male Cha hula hula ....Give her items a try if you have a bad boy in your home... just click on my favorite sellers link.. just click her name for easy access to her web page to purchase these well made hand-crafted belly bands..now access her shop by clicking on the above picture :)

Sassy Pet-Wear Chairty Dress

"Paws Parade of Hope" a fund-raiser event that honors our pets for their healing and therapeutic presence in our lives and especially for those battling catastrophic illnesses such as cancer. The cost of each dress is $22.99 and $12.00 goes to Chairty. All proceeds related to this event are split between the Bay Area Humane Society and the Beacon House of Green Bay, WI which is an out-reach organization for people battling cancer. Susan Gee spearheads this charity. If you would like to make donations please send via pay pal to pogo99@roadrunner.com. If you make a charitable contribution. I will then send you the tax i.d# so it can be written off your taxes. Thanks in advance for your contributions to help people suffering from cancer and for the pets who lift their spirits. You can also visit this web site www.sassy-petwear.com or sassy petware on Ebay. Thank you all for taking the time to read this blog post that will help many...Aunt Pitty Pat

Designed by Green jelly

What a cute way to carry your change

Free Pattern by Greenjelly

Sweet little bird slippers

Baby Slippers

Wonderful toddler slipper patterns from greenjelly... aren't these just adorable..I just love them all.. they would look so sweet on any little child...Make them for a baby shower gift...Greenjelly also has hand crafted finished items you can purchase.. inadditon she has other adorable patterns for sale...you can purchase these sweet patterns from greenjelly's etsy shop just click the link on my blog to find her.

A Pattern Designed by GreenJelly

LOL I love this Little Kitty... buy your pattern from GreenJelly

Funky little finger cuffs

Wonderful little fabric rings by Sewsewsuckurtoe

Handcrafted Nesting Doll

Great detail on these little Dolls, any little girl would love these as a gift.. check out Sewsewsuckurtoes site for them

Handcrafted Wallets from Sewsewsuckurtoe

Chirping into spring with these wonderful little wallets

Pillow Cases

I just love these little pillow cases made by sewsewsuckurtoe. This artist sews other wondeful items like sweet little wallets, note book covers, little dolls, and good luck charms.. Almost all of her items are brightly colored and very cheerful. I own several of her sweet items. You can purchase these from her web site...Just click on my link to her Etsy shop. Aren't these sweet as can be?

These wonderful carefree skirts can be made with your choice of fabrics and colors... I can email you photos of fabric samples.. just pick out three fabrics you would like in your skirt and I can make it up for you lickity split :) I would also need a couple of other pieces of information from you .. the waist size, and the length. I am also going to be offering for sale a matching halter top.. just like the ones I wore in the 70's.

Do Daa Doggie Apparel says....

Hum to dress up or down? Lovely little bandanas for your favorite furbaby to wear.

Do-Daa Doggie says we've gone to the dogs :)

Check book Wallet

Belly Bands and Bandanas from Do Daa Doggie Apparel .. for direct access click on single photo

Handcrafted Eco Friendly Purse by Katesy

I just love this elegant little black bag..I wanted to purchase it... but alas it already had a buyer.. Take a moment to look at the attention to detail. This item is fabulous and made from recycled materials... which is what I believe in.. saving Mother Earth one item or fabric at a time...Katey makes so many wonderful upcycled items...I wish I could list them all. Check out her shop and see some of the wonderful items she has for sale..just click on her name on my list of favorite sellers :0)

The Radical Thread Company...by Katsey

Katsey can make you almost anything... this is a custom order from her Etsy Shop ... stop take a look at her faublous items.

Katsey at The Radical Thread Co Made this :)

Dead guy... business card wallet this was another custom order

Items offered by Katesy

Accessories for all your needs

SympleTymes Cloth Art by:Sherrie Nordgren

Sherrie is one of the most talented Doll artisan that I have ever met. I love the sweet faces on her Ann and Andy dolls. Most Prim dolls are scary looking..not Sherries :) Just click on photo to link to the web site where you can purchase the patterns for these wonderful little dolls. Inaddition don't forget to check out Sherrie's blog, just click on Symple Tymes on my list of other interesting reads... you will find Sherrie has lots of fun things to read... so hurry along and don't miss out on the fun of her blog. ;)

Swanky Dog Designs

Little Betty Boop... What a wonderful little dress .. this dress is fabulous.. completely Designed from beginnning and end from Swanky Dog. Not only does Swanky Dog make dog apparel, she makes some awesome Swanky boots from original designs. These great boots can be used for Christmas stockings or just for Decorations. This designer has been featured in magazines in her local area of Washington. Her very sweet apparel is in several boutiques. I have a link to take you straight to her site... Give this seller a look see :0)

Swanky boots

The Purrrrrr-fect boot for your needs

Wonderful little mini Swanky Boot

These boots make wonderful Holiday Stockings

Wonderful Handcrafted aprons for sale

doviesaprons.etsy.com Is right were you can find these exciting aprons for sale. Dovies has some of the best handcrafted aprons around. The color, trims, fabrics are all so fun and functional. Go give her a look .....I am sure you will be glad you did :) My favorite is her recently finished three pie apron. :)

Fabulous Cakes for Sale!!!

Get your yummy handcrafted cakes at Sweet Rebas... Check out this fantastic bakers website if you are in the CA area :) Just click her yummy pictured cake to go to her website :)

Eekoh Aprons .. saving mother earth one apron at a time :)

Hey fellow apron lovers this is Kris... he has a wonderful little green shop on Etsy: its called Eekoh. Kris makes wonderful aprons "I really love the thought of making something that is fun, looks good and at the same time helps the earth. Anything that I can reuse, recycle, to be REBORN" All of these fantastic aprons are cut from upcycled items... so pop over there and check out his wonderful aprons.. Hey girls maybe we could get him into our apron clubs and swaps. I know I would love to have one of these fine aprons :) Kris said this pictured apron, is the first one he made :)